Fun Easy English - Travel the United States of America

CAPITAL CITY: Montpelier

BACKGROUND

In 1609, French explorer Samuel de Champlain came upon a large lake in the area we know today as Vermont and named it after himself. The state's name comes from two French words vert (green) and mont (mountain). In 1791, Vermont was the 14th state to join the Union. Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys defended their homeland from the British during the Revolutionary War. Vermont is famous for the scenic Green Mountains which run the entire length of the state. Although manufacturing and a growing service industry sector are now the most important economic activities in the state, Vermont has one of the lowest percentages of city dwellers of any state.

Many vacationers go to Vermont just for the beautiful scenery. In the fall, the state is ablaze with the flaming colors of turning leaves. Vermont's quiet towns and villages are also favorite scenes. The mountains, lakes and streams offer a variety of recreational activities from skiing in the winter to hiking and camping in the summer.

QUICK FACTS

Nickname: Green Mountain State

Motto: Freedom and Unity

Statehood: March 4, 1791 (14th)

Origin of State's Name: Based on "verts monts," French for green mountains

Largest City: Burlington

Border States: Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York

Land Area: 9,249 sq. mi., 43rd largest

State Bird: Hermit Thrush

State Flower: Red Clover (trifolium pratense)

State Tree: Sugar Maple (acer saccharum)

State Song: Hail, Vermont

USEFUL LINKS

Miscellaneous

Travel and tourism site for Vermont - This state travel and territorial tourism site provides ideas for your vacations, meetings, and more.